This is in regards to Ultimate water conditioner.

Me:
Hi,

I'm interested in purchasing your product, but have a question. When the label says "boosts alkalinity" does it raise or stabilize the alkalinity? I don't need any higher or raised alkalinity.



Thanks,

J

Reply:
J:
By increasing the alkalinity it does help stabilize the pH. As I am sure you are aware, “alkalinity” and “pH” is not the same thing (these are often confused by novice aquariculturists). I am sure you know one can increase the alkalinity without changing the pH. How do you currently measure your alkalinity? Also, how do you currently measure your pH?

BTW, it often helps to think of alkalinity as “acid-neutralizing capacity”.

Me:
Hi John,

I use an API test kit to test ph and kh. My kh is low from the tap, but I have crushed coral to raise the alkalinity. Could I remove the crushed coral if I used Ultimate?



Thanks,

J

Reply:
J:
I think you have recognized that alkalinity can be measured with a so-called carbonate hardness kit. Testing the alkalinity on a routine basis is one of the best ways to determine when to do water changes and to predict when pH (Note: always written with a small “p” and big “H”) might drop. Since ULTIMATE is to be used only with water changes and water additions, when adding new animals, and when dealing with increasing ammonia levels it can’t be relied upon to maintain the alkalinity.

However, instead on crushed coral I would strongly recommend the use of crushed oyster shell.